UNIT DOSE LIQUID LAUNDRY DETERGENT COMPOSITION

Abstract

 A unit dose liquid laundry detergent composition in a water-soluble pouch, characterized in that it comprises:
a) a combination of glycereth cocoate and ethoxylated C12 -14 fatty alcohol in a ratio by weight between 80:20 and 20:80;
b) a combination of organic solvents selected from monohydric C1-C8 alcohols, polyhydric alcohols, and mixtures thereof;
c) an anionic surfactant selected from alkali, ammonium and alkanolamine salts of alkyl ether sulphate, alkyl sulphate and alkylbenzene sulphonate;
d) an alkali, ammonium or alkanolamine salt of a fatty acid with a saturated or unsaturated, hydroxylated or non-hydroxylated hydrocarbon chain having 8 to 18 carbon atoms;
wherein the amount of the combination of glycereth cocoate and ethoxylated C12 -14 fatty alcohol is between 10%-50% by weight;
wherein the amount of the combination of glycerine and propylene glycol is between 5%-40% by weight; and
wherein the content of water is not more than 15% on the total weight of the composition.
The use of the unit dose in laundry washing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the field of liquid laundry detergents, in particular, to a liquid detergent composition in a water-soluble multichamber unit dose.

Background art

[0002] Laundry detergent compositions are used to clean fabrics in the wash. Solid compositions are progressively substituted by liquid formulations, which are gaining increasing acceptance among consumers.

[0003] Another trend seen in the detergent market is the use of detergent compositions in unit dose water-soluble pouches for more precise dosing, reducing overdosage, and convenience and easy during laundering.

[0004] Further, the incorporation of components of natural origin in the compositions, due to increasing environmental concerns and the advances in biotechnology, is well accepted by the consumer.

[0005] In the art a considerable number of laundry detergents compositions have been disclosed in order to improve performance on specific soils and/or improving the stability of water-soluble pouches. In particular combination of components, such as polymers, surfactants, solvents, have been disclosed.

[0006] In WO-A-2018/125551 it is disclosed a water-soluble unit dose article comprising a water-soluble film and a laundry detergent composition, which comprises a combination of specific amounts of: an ethoxylated polyethyleneimine, a fatty acid or a neutralised fatty acid soap, and a non-soap surfactant.

[0007] In WO-A-2018/125554 it is disclosed a water-soluble unit dose article comprising a water-soluble film and a laundry detergent composition, which comprises specific amounts of: a zwitterionic polyamine, a non-soap surfactant, and a fatty acid or a neutralised fatty acid soap.

[0008] In WO-A-2018/204559 it is disclosed a laundry detergent composition comprising a detersive surfactant, wherein the detersive surfactant comprises a combination of anionic and non-ionic surfactant; and a solvent selected from the group consisting of C₄-C₁₀ alkyl branched alcohols, and mixtures thereof.

[0009] In WO-A-2019/010368 it is disclosed a cleaning composition comprising specific amounts of: a surfactant system, comprising anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, non-ionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, and mixtures thereof, and a non-alkoxylated esteramine, and/or a salt thereof. The cleaning composition may also be packaged as a single- or multicompartment pouch.

[0010] In WO-A-2019/032255 it is disclosed a water-soluble unit dose article comprising a water-soluble film and a liquid laundry detergent composition, wherein the liquid laundry detergent composition comprises specific amounts of an amphiphilic graft polymer; a polyester terephthalate, carboxymethylcellulose or a derivative thereof, and a non-soap anionic surfactant.

[0011] In WO-A-2019/032256 it is disclosed a water-soluble unit dose article comprising a water-soluble film and a liquid laundry detergent composition, wherein the liquid laundry detergent composition comprises specific amounts of: an amphiphilic graft polymer; carboxymethylcellulose or a derivative thereof, and a non-soap anionic surfactant.

[0012] In WO-A-2019/032257 it is disclosed a water-soluble unit dose article comprising a water-soluble film and a liquid laundry detergent composition, wherein the liquid laundry detergent composition comprises specific amounts of: an amphiphilic graft polymer, a polyester terephthalate, and a non-soap anionic surfactant.

[0013] In WO-A-2019/032258 it is disclosed a water-soluble unit dose article comprising a water-soluble film and a liquid laundry detergent composition, wherein the liquid laundry detergent composition comprises specific amounts of: a polyester terephthalate, a carboxymethylcellulose or a derivative thereof, and a non-soap anionic surfactant.

[0014] In WO-A-2018/048669 it is disclosed a water-soluble unit dose article comprising liquid laundry detergent composition comprising specific amounts of: an amine neutralised C_12-14 linear alkylbenzene sulphonate, a cationically modified polysaccharide, and a cellulosic polymer.

[0015] Despite the numerous proposals available in the state of the art, there is still a need to have new and highly performing detergent compositions in water-soluble pouches for the use in laundry washing, which optionally comprise biosurfactants and enzymes, and which show satisfactory overall detergency.

Object of the invention

[0016] The object of the present invention is a unit dose of a liquid laundry detergent composition.

[0017] Another aspect of the invention is the use of said unit dose in laundry washing.

Figures

[0018] Figures 1 to 8 disclose different views of specific embodiments of the unit dose according to the present invention.

Detailed description of the invention

[0019] The object of the present invention is a unit dose of a liquid laundry detergent composition in a water-soluble pouch comprising a water-soluble film and a composition comprising:

a) a combination of glycereth cocoate and ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol in a ratio glycereth cocoate:ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol comprised between 80:20 and 20:80 by weight, preferably between 50:50 and 75:25 by weight,

b) a combination of organic solvents selected from the group of monohydric C₁-C₈ alcohols, polyhydric alcohols, and mixtures thereof, preferably selected from the group consisting of methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, i-butanol, n-pentanol, i-pentanol, n-hexanol, i-hexanol, 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, 2-ethylhexanol, 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol, butyl diglycol, butyl glycol, glycerine, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, PEG, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, dipropylene glycol, and mixtures thereof, more preferably a combination of glycerine and propylene glycol, and yet more preferably in a ratio glycerine:propylene glycol comprised between 80:20 and 20:80 by weight, preferably between 50:50 and 75:25 by weight,

c) an anionic surfactant selected from the group consisting of alkali, ammonium and alkanolamine salts of alkyl ether sulphate, alkyl sulphate and alkylbenzene sulphonate,

d) an alkali, ammonium or alkanolamine salt of a fatty acid with a saturated or unsaturated, hydroxylated or non-hydroxylated hydrocarbon chain having 8 to 18 carbon atoms,

wherein the amount of the combination of glycereth cocoate and ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol is comprised between 10% and 50% by weight on the total weight of the composition,
wherein the amount of the combination of glycerine and propylene glycol is comprised between 5% and 40% by weight over the total weight of the composition, and wherein the content of water is not more than 15%, preferably not more than 10%, and more preferably not more than 5% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

[0020] The authors of the present invention have developed a unit dose comprising a water-soluble film and a liquid laundry detergent composition comprising a specific combination of non-ionic surfactants and co-solvents, optionally comprising also a biosurfactant selected from the group of sophorolipids and (D-pentose and D-glucose) oligomeric C_8-12-alkylglycosides, and optionally comprising at least one enzyme selected from a specific group, which, surprisingly, shows high performance on overall detergency, and remains stable on time.

[0021] Throughout the present description, unless otherwise specified, the concentrations expressed as percentages always refer to the percentage weight/weight (w/w), that is, grams of a certain component per 100 g of composition, and the percentages of the different components of a composition are adjusted so that their sum is 100%.

[0022] In the context of the invention, the active matter of a surfactant, a hydrotropic agent, or a detergent composition refers to the residue that remains after removing the water and the possible cosolvents present in the product. The active matter of an enzyme is that indicated by the manufacturer in the corresponding technical sheet.

[0023] The term "approximately" or "about" refers to a deviation of plus/minus 10%, preferably plus/minus 5%.

[0024] In the present description, as well as in the claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include the plural reference unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The ranges defined by the preposition "between" include also the two ends thereof.

Unit dose

[0025] The laundry liquid detergent composition is comprised in a water-soluble multichamber unit dose.

[0026] The water-soluble unit dose comprises the water-soluble film shaped such that the unit-dose article comprises more than one internal chamber surrounded by the water-soluble film. The unit dose article may comprise a first water-soluble film and a second water-soluble film sealed to one another such to define the internal chamber(s). The water-soluble unit dose is constructed such that the detergent composition does not leak out of the chamber during storage, but upon addition of the water-soluble unit dose to water, the water-soluble film dissolves and releases the contents of the internal chamber(s) into the wash liquor.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment the unit dose comprises more than two chambers, preferably three or four chambers. In a more preferred embodiment, the unit dose comprises three chambers. In another preferred embodiment, the unit dose comprises four chambers. The chambers may be arranged in superposed orientation, i.e. one positioned on top of the other(s). Alternatively, the chambers may be positioned in a side -by-side orientation, i.e. one orientated next to the other(s). The chambers may even be orientated in a 'tyre and rim' arrangement, i.e. a first chamber is positioned next to a second chamber, but the first chamber at least partially surrounds the second chamber, but does not completely enclose the second chamber. Alternatively, one or more chambers may be completely enclosed within another chambers. Figures 1 to 8 disclose different views of specific embodiments of a water-soluble unit dose, which may comprise the liquid laundry composition of the present invention.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the liquid laundry detergent composition according to the present invention is comprised in more than one chamber. It may for example be comprised in two chambers, or even in three or four chambers.

[0029] Each chamber may comprise the same or different compositions. In a preferred embodiment, all chambers comprise the same composition, which is the liquid laundry detergent composition of the present invention. In alternative embodiments, chambers may comprise different detergent components to improve performance, stability and/or compatibility of the components. For example, the unit dose of the invention may comprise a chamber comprising the liquid laundry detergent composition of the invention, and at least one or more chambers comprising softening active ingredients, for example, quaternized triethanolamine fatty acid esters, fibre protection polymers, disinfecting actives, bleaching agents, or hard water ions sequestering agents.

[0030] The weight of the unit dose is usually comprised between 5 g and 50 g, preferably between 10 g and 40 g, more preferably between 15 g and 35 g, yet more preferably between 20 g and 30 g, and yet more preferably about 25 g.

Water-soluble film

[0031] The film of the present invention is soluble or dispersible in water. The water-soluble film preferably has a thickness of from 20 to 150 microns, preferably 35 to 125 microns, and yet more preferably 50 to 110 microns.

[0032] Preferably, the film has a water solubility of at least 50%, preferably at least 75% or even at least 95%, as measured by the method disclosed in, for example, WO-A-2018/125554.

[0033] Film materials are preferably polymeric materials. The film material can, for example, be obtained by casting, blow-moulding, extrusion or blown extrusion of the polymeric material, as known in the art.

[0034] The water-soluble film is selected from polyvinyl alcohols, milk protein, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyalkylene oxides, acrylamide, acrylic acid, cellulose, cellulose ethers, cellulose esters, cellulose amides, polyvinyl acetates, polycarboxylic acids and salts, polyaminoacids, polyamides, polyacrylamide, copolymers of maleic/acrylic acids, polysaccharides, natural gums such as xanthan gum. Most preferably film material is selected from polyvinyl alcohols, and milk protein. The polymer may have any weight average molecular weight, preferably from about 1000 to 1,000,000, more preferably from about 10,000 to 300,000, and yet more preferably from about 20,000 to 150,000.

[0035] Preferred films are those supplied by the company Monosol, for example, under the trade name MonoDose® M8310 or MonoDose® M8312, and Lactips, for example, under the trade name CareTips® L0003.

[0036] The film may be opaque, transparent or translucent. The film may comprise a printed area. The area of print may be achieved using standard techniques, such as flexographic printing or inkjet printing.

[0037] The film may comprise an aversive agent, for example a bittering agent. Suitable bittering agents include, but are not limited to, naringin, sucrose octaacetate, quinine hydrochloride, denatonium benzoate, or mixtures thereof. Any suitable level of aversive agent may be used in the film. Suitable levels include, but are not limited to, 1 to 5000 ppm, or even 100 to 2500 ppm, or even 250 to 2000 rpm. PVA film M8312 includes already a bittering agent.

Combination of non-ionic surfactants

[0038] The composition of the invention comprises a combination of non-ionic surfactants consisting of glycereth cocoate and ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol in a ratio glycereth cocoate:ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol by weight comprised between 80:20 and 20:80, preferably between 50:50 and 75:25.

[0039] The ethoxylated fatty alcohol C_12-14 is obtained by a catalysed reaction of ethylene oxide and a fatty alcohol C_12-14. The addition of ethylene oxide does not produce a single product, but a mixture of homologues containing different ratios of ethylene oxide. The reaction product is described by the average molar ratio of ethylene oxide to alcohol, corresponding to the number of moles added. The number of moles of ethylene oxide is usually comprised between 2 and 12, preferably between 4 and 10, more preferably between 6 and 8, and more preferably is 7. These surfactants are available having 100% active matter. It is supplied by companies such as BASF and Kao, for example.

[0040] The non-ionic glycereth cocoate is also known as glycerine polyalkoxylated coconut fatty ester. It is produced by alkoxylation with ethylene oxide of a triglyceride having the fatty acid distribution of coconut (C_8-18). In a preferred embodiment the content of ethylene oxide is comprised between 3 and 10 moles, more preferably between 4 and 9, and more preferably between 5 and 8, and yet more preferably 7 moles. It is well known that in the ethoxylation process it is obtained a distribution of different species having different amount of attached ethylene oxide. In this description, the number of moles refer to the moles of ethylene oxide added per mol of fatty alcohol. This surfactant is available having 100% active matter. It is supplied by companies such as Kao, for example.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the combination of non-ionic surfactants consists of an ethoxylated fatty alcohol C_12-14, wherein the moles of ethylene oxide are comprised between 2 and 12, preferably between 4 and 10, more preferably between 6 and 8, and more preferably is 7, and a glycerine polyalkoxylated coconut fatty ester having a content of ethylene oxide comprised between 3 and 10 moles, more preferably between 4 and 9, and more preferably between 5 and 8, and yet more preferably 7 moles. In a more preferred embodiment, the combination of non-ionics consists of fatty alcohol C_12-14 ethoxylated with 7 moles of ethylene oxide and glycerine polyalkoxylated coconut fatty ester ethoxylated with 7 moles of ethylene oxide.

[0042] The ratio glycereth cocoate:ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol is comprised between 80:20 and 20:80, preferably between 50:50 and 75:25 by weight, preferably selected from 50:50, 51:49, 52:48, 53:47, 54:46, 55:45, 56:44, 57:43: 58:42, 59:41, 60;40, 61:39, 62:38, 63:37, 64:36, 65:35, 66:34, 67:33, 68:32, 69:31, 70:30, 71:29, 72:28, 73:27, 74:26 and 75:25.

[0043] The content of the combination on non-ionic surfactants in the composition of the invention is comprised between 10% and 50% by weight, preferably, between 15% and 45% by weight, more preferably between 20% and 40% by weight, yet more preferably between 25% and 35% by weight, and yet more preferably about 30% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

Combination of organic solvents

[0044] The composition of the invention comprises a combination of organic solvents selected from the group of monohydric alcohols, polyhydric alcohols, and mixtures thereof.

[0045] Monohydric alcohols suitable to be used in the composition of the invention are, for example, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, i-butanol, n-pentanol, i-pentanol, n-hexanol, i-hexanol, butyl glycol, 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, 2-ethylhexanol.

[0046] Polyhydric alcohols suitable to be used in the composition of the invention are, for example, glycerine, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, PEG, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, dipropylene glycol.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment the combination of organic solvents is selected from the group consisting methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, i-butanol, n-pentanol, i-pentanol, n-hexanol, i-hexanol, 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, 2-ethylhexanol, 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol, butyl diglycol, butyl glycol, glycerine, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, PEG, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, dipropylene glycol, and mixtures thereof.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the combination of organic solvents consists of a combination of glycerine and propylene glycol, more preferably in a ratio glycerine:propylene glycol comprised between 80:20 and 20:80, preferably between 50:50 and 75:25 by weight. Preferably the ratio glycerine:propylene glycol is comprised between 50:50 and 75:25 by weight, preferably selected from 50:50, 51:49, 52:48, 53:47, 54:46, 55:45, 56:44, 57:43: 58:42, 59:41, 60;40, 61:39, 62:38, 63:37, 64:36, 65:35, 66:34, 67:33, 68:32, 69:31, 70:30, 71:29, 72:28, 73:27, 74:26 and 75:25.

[0049] In another embodiment the composition may contain a further organic solvent selected from the group comprising a hydrocarbon/ester blend, isopropyl laurate, methyl ester from soybean oil, C₁-C₄ alkyl esters of lactic acid, D-limonene, and mixtures thereof. Those solvents are commercially available. In particular, a hydrocarbon/ester blend is available as Elevance Clean® 1000 and Elevance Clean® 1200 from the company Elevance. Isopropyl laurate is available, for example, as Estisol® 242 from the company Estichem; methyl ester from soybean oil is available, for example, as Steposol® SB-W from the company Stepan.

[0050] In the context of the invention, the content of the combination of organic solvents is comprised between 5% and 40% by weight, preferably between 10% and 38%, more preferably between 15% and 35% by weight, more preferably between 20% and 30% by weight, and yet more preferably comprised between 25% and 28% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

Anionic surfactant

[0051] The composition of the invention comprises an anionic surfactant selected from the group consisting of alkali, ammonium and alkanolamine salts of alkyl ether sulphate, alkyl sulphate and alkylbenzene sulphonate.

[0052] The alkyl ether sulphates are esters of sulfuric acid with fatty alcohols with a carbon chain of between 10 and 20 carbon atoms, preferably between 12 and 18, more preferably between 12 and 14, comprising between 0.5 and 10 moles of ethylene oxide, preferably between 0.5 and 5, and more preferably between 0.5 and 2. One of the most used is sodium lauryl sulphate (LES) with 2 moles of ethylene oxide, preferably at about 70% active matter, to reduce the amount of water in the composition.

[0053] The alkyl sulphates are esters of sulfuric acid with fatty alcohols with a carbon chain of between 10 and 20 carbon atoms, preferably between 12 and 18, more preferably between 12 and 14. One of the most used is sodium lauryl sulphate.

[0054] The alkylbenzene sulfonates derive from the sulfonation of alkylbenzenes and are generally used in the form of alkali metal or alkanolamine salts. The alkyl group in the alkylbenzene sulfonate preferably contains a carbon chain of between 8 and 16 carbon atoms, preferably between 10 and 15. One of the most used is dodecylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) sodium salt.

[0055] Companies such as BASF, Huntsman, Croda, or Kao, market a wide range of such anionic surfactants.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises an alkyl ether sulphate in the form of alkali, ammonium or alkanolamine salts. In a more preferred embodiment, the composition comprises a sodium lauryl sulphate with 2 moles of ethylene oxide.

[0057] The content of anionic surfactant in the composition of the invention is usually comprised between 10% and 40% by weight, preferably between 15% and 35% by weight, more preferably between 20% and 30% by weight, and more preferably between 23% and 28% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

Soap

[0058] The composition of the invention comprises at least one soap, which is an alkali, ammonium or alkanolamine salt of a fatty acid with a saturated or unsaturated, hydroxylated or non-hydroxylated hydrocarbon chain having 8 to 18 carbon atoms. Preferably, the soap is an alkali, ammonium or alkanolamine salt of fatty acid having the carbon chain distribution of coconut oil or palm kernel oil, more preferably coconut oil, more preferably a saturated hydrocarbon chain having 12 to 18 carbon atoms, and yet more preferably a saturated hydrocarbon chain having 12 to 14 carbon atoms. In a preferred embodiment the soap is an alkanolamine salt, and more preferably a monoethanolamine salt of a fatty acid having a C_12-14 saturated hydrocarbon chain.

[0059] The content of the soap in the composition of the invention is comprised between 5% and 30% by weight, preferably between 7.5% and 25% by weight, more preferably between 10% and 20% by weight, and more preferably between 12 and 18% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

Biosurfactant

[0060] In a preferred embodiment the composition of the invention further comprises a biosurfactant selected from:

1) sophorolipid,

2) (D-pentose and D-glucose), oligomeric, C_8-10-alkyl glycosides,

3) D-pentose, oligomeric C_10-12-alkylglycosides, and

4) mixtures thereof.

[0061] The sophorolipid surfactant comprises a sophorolipid according to general formula (I)

wherein:

R¹ and R² are individually H or an acetyl group;

R³ is a saturated or unsaturated, hydroxylated or non-hydroxylated hydrocarbon group having 1 to 9 carbon atoms;

R⁴ is a saturated or unsaturated, hydroxylated or non-hydroxylated hydrocarbon group having 1 to 19 carbon atoms, with the proviso that the total number of carbon atoms in the groups R³ and R⁴ does not exceed 20;

R⁵ is H or a lactone ring formed with R⁶; and

R⁶ is OH or a lactone ring formed with R⁵.

[0062] The sophorolipid may be incorporated into the composition as either the open chain free acid form, where R⁵ is H and R⁶ is OH, or in its lactone form, where the lactone ring is formed between R⁵ and R⁶ as shown by general formula (II):

wherein R¹, R², R³ and R⁴ are as defined above, with the proviso that at least one of R¹ or R² is an acetyl group.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the biosurfactant consists of a sophorolipid of formula (I) or formula (II). Preferably the composition comprises a sophorolipid defined by a mixture of compound of formula (I) and compound of formula (II),
wherein
R¹ and R² are individually H or an acetyl group, R³ is a methyl group, R⁴ is a -CH₂-(CH₂)₅-CH=CH-(CH₂)₆-CH₂-, R⁵ is H and R⁶ is OH in compound of formula (I), and wherein
R¹ and R² are individually H or an acetyl group, R³ is a methyl group, R⁴ is a -CH₂-(CH₂)₅-CH=CH-(CH₂)₆-CH₂-, and R⁵ is a lactone ring formed with R⁶ in compound of formula (II), with the proviso that at least one R¹ or R² is an acetyl group.

[0064] In a more preferred embodiment, the composition comprises a sophorolipid defined by a mixture of compound of formula (I) and compound of formula (II),
wherein
R¹ and R² are an acetyl group, R³ is a methyl group, R⁴ is a -CH₂-(CH₂)₅-CH=CH-(CH₂)₆-CH₂-, R⁵ is H and R⁶ is OH in compound of formula (I), and wherein
R¹ and R² are an acetyl group, R³ is a methyl group, R⁴ is a -CH₂-(CH₂)₅-CH=CH-(CH₂)₆-CH₂-, and R⁵ is a lactone ring formed with R⁶ in compound of formula (II).

[0065] In a more preferred embodiment, the biosurfactant consists of a mixture of 60 wt.% to 62 wt.% sophorolipid of formula (I) and 38 wt.% to 40 wt.% of sophorolipid of formula (II).

[0066] Sophorolipids can be produced by yeast cells, for example Torulopsis apicola and Torulopsis bombicola. The fermentation process typically utilises sugars and alkanes as substrates. Appropriate fermentation methods are reviewed in, for example, Gobbert, et al., Sophorose lipid formation by resting cells of Torulopsis bombicola, Biotechnology Letters (1984) 6 (4), 225. Sophorolipids are commercially available, for example, as Rewoferm® SL (Evonik).

[0067] In another preferred embodiment, the biosurfactant consists of a mixture of (D-pentose and D-glucose), oligomeric, C_8-10-alkyl glycosides and D-pentose, oligomeric C_10-12-alkylglycosides. This biosurfactant is produced from fatty alcohols and D-pentose and D-glucose. These products are typically marketed as 50% aqueous solutions, wherein the content of (D-pentose and D-glucose), oligomeric, C_8-10-alkyl glycosides is usually comprised between 18% and 30% by weight and the content of D-pentose, oligomeric C_10-12-alkylglycosides is usually comprised between 12% and 24% by weight. The degree of polymerisation of the saccharides is usually at least about 1.5, preferably at least 2, as disclosed in FR-A-2967164. These surfactants are available from companies such as Wheatoleo, under the trade name of Appyclean®, for example, Appyclean® 6382.

[0068] In that preferred embodiment, the content of biosurfactant in the composition of the invention is comprised usually between 1% and 25% by weight, preferably between 2% and 15% by weight, more preferably between 3% and 10% by weight, more preferably between 4% and 7% by weight, and yet more preferably between 5% and 6% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

Enzymes

[0069] In a preferred embodiment the composition of the invention further comprises at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of protease, α-amylase, lipase, cellulase, pectinase, oxidase, and mannanase.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment the composition of the present invention comprises a combination of enzymes consisting of a protease, an α-amylase, and a lipase. In another preferred embodiment the composition of the present invention comprises a combination of enzymes consisting of a protease, an α-amylase, and a cellulase. In another preferred embodiment the composition of the present invention comprises a combination of enzymes consisting of a protease, an α-amylase, a lipase, and a cellulase. In another preferred embodiment, the composition of the present invention comprises a combination of enzymes consisting of a protease, an α-amylase, a lipase, and a mannanase. In another preferred embodiment, the composition of the present invention comprises a combination of enzymes consisting of a protease, an α-amylase, a cellulase, and a mannanase. In another preferred embodiment the composition of the present invention comprises a combination of enzymes consisting of a protease, an α-amylase, a lipase, and a pectinase. In another preferred embodiment the composition of the present invention comprises a combination of enzymes consisting of a protease, an α-amylase, a cellulase, and a pectinase. In another preferred embodiment the composition of the present invention comprises a combination of enzymes consisting of a protease, an α-amylase, a lipase, and an oxidase. In another preferred embodiment the composition of the present invention comprises a combination of enzymes consisting of a protease, an α-amylase, a cellulase, and an oxidase. In another preferred embodiment, the composition of the present invention comprises a combination of enzymes consisting of a protease, an α-amylase, a lipase, a cellulase, and a mannanase.

[0071] In a more preferred embodiment, the composition comprises a combination of enzymes comprising a protease, an α-amylase, a mannanase, and a pectinase. In a yet more preferred embodiment, the composition comprises a combination of enzymes consisting of a protease, an α-amylase, a mannanase, and a pectinase

[0072] In the context of the invention, the expression "a protease", "an amylase", "a lipase", "a cellulase", "an oxidase", "a pectinase", and "a mannanase" extend to the combination of two or more proteases, α-amylases, lipases, cellulases, oxidases, pectinases, or, mannanases, respectively.

Protease

[0073] Proteases, or peptidases, constitute a group of enzymes capable of hydrolyzing the peptide bond of proteins. They belong to subclass EC 3.4.

[0074] The proteases are classified into exopeptidases or endopeptidases, according to their centre of action, so that the exopeptidases hydrolyse the peptide bond of the carboxy or amino terminal end of the polypeptide chain, while the endopeptidases cleave the internal peptide bonds of the polypeptide.

[0075] Proteases are also classified, according to the functional group present in their active site, into four groups: serine-proteases, cysteine-proteases, aspartic-proteases, and metalloproteases.

[0076] Likewise, depending on the pH at which they are active, they are classified into acidic, alkaline or neutral proteases.

[0077] Proteases can be obtained from plants, animals or microorganisms (bacteria, yeast and fungi).

[0078] In the context of the present invention, a protease of any origin can be employed.

[0079] Also included within the field of the present invention are mutant forms of the proteases, either by chemical modification or by genetic engineering.

[0080] Some proteases obtained from plants are, for example, papain, bromelain, and ficin. Among the proteases obtained from animals are, for example, protaminase, trypsin, chymotrypsin, pepsin and renin.

[0081] Proteases can also be obtained from bacteria such as Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus firmus, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus pumilis, Streptomyces fradiae, Streptomyces griseus, Streptomyces rectus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus metagerium or Pseudomonas aeruginosa, among others; as well as from fungi, such as Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus sojae, Aspergillus oryzae, Aspergillus flavus, Pericularia oryzae, Endothia parasitica, Mucor miehei, or Mucor pusillus.

[0082] In the context of the invention, a protease selected from those commercially available may be used, such as, for example, those marketed under the names Alcalase®, Savinase®, Primase®, Durazym®, Polarzyme®, Kannase®, Liquanase®, Ovozyme®, Neutrase®, Everlase®, Esperase®, Maxatase®, Maxacal®, Maxapem®, Polarzyme®, Properase®, Purafect®, Purafect® OxP, Properase®, Excellase® or Opticlean®.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment, the protease is a subtilisin. Subtilisins (EC 3.4.21.62) belong to the group of serine proteases and are produced mainly by bacteria of the Bacillus genus, such as Bacillus sp., Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus alcalophilus, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus clausii, Bacillus lentus, Bacillus licheniformis, or Bacillus stearothermophilus, among others. Among subtilisins, for example, subtilisin A or subtilisin Carlberg, subtilisin BPN', subtilisin DY, subtilisin 309, subtilisin Y, subtilisin 168, or subtilisin PB92 may be mentioned. These proteases are commercially available like, for example, those marketed under the names Alcalase®, Everlase®, Savinase® or Polarzyme® by the company Novozymes A/S.

α-Amylase

[0084] α-amylases (EC 3.2.1.1) are enzymes that hydrolyze 1,4-α-D-glycosidic bonds in polysaccharides that contain three or more glucose units bound by 1,4-α bonds. α-amylases hydrolyze starch, as well as glycogen and oligosaccharides. They can be obtained from animals, plants or microorganisms. Any α-amylase of any origin is suitable for use within the field of the present invention.

[0085] In a preferred embodiment, the α-amylase is of microbial origin. Amylases can be obtained from bacteria such as, for example, Acinetobacter spp., Bacillus acidocaldarius A-2, Bacillus alcalophilus subsp. Halodurans, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus coagulans, Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus macerans, Bacillus subtilis, Halobacterium halobium, among others; or from fungi such as Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus oryzae, Fusarium oxysporum, Humicola insolens, Humicola lanuginosa, Mucor pusillus or Trichoderma viride; or from yeasts, such as Candida tropicalis var. japonica, Endomycopsis fibuligera, Lipomyces starkeyi, S. castellii, Pichia polymorpha or Sachwanniomyces alluvius.

[0086] Some commercially available α-amylases are, for example, Termamyl®, Duramyl®, Nalasase®, Fungamyl®, Liquozyme®, Stainzyme®, Bioamylase®, Kemzym®, or Purastar®.

Lipase

[0087] Lipases, or triacylglycerol acylhydrolases (EC 3.1.1.3) are enzymes that are part of the family of hydrolases and that act on the ester-type bonds of triglycerides, hydrolyzing them into diglycerides, monoglycerides, fatty acids and glycerine.

[0088] Lipases can be obtained from animals, plants and microorganisms, mainly bacteria, fungi and yeasts. In the context of the present invention, a lipase from any origin can be employed, a good number of which are commercially available.

[0089] Among lipases of animal origin is, for example, the pancreatic lipase which can be obtained from the pig pancreas, and is available from various suppliers, for example, through the company Biocatalysts Ltd under the name Lipomod® 224P-L224P.

[0090] Lipases of bacterial origin are available, for example, from bacteria of the genera Pseudomonas, Achromobacter, Alcaligenes, Burkholderia, Chromobacterium or Thermus, which are marketed, for example, under the trade names Lumafast®, Lipomax®, Lipase ALC, Lipase ALG, Lipase PLC, Lipase PLG, Lipase QLG, Lipase SL, Lipase CV, Lipase PS "Amano", Lipase AK "Amano" or Lipase TL; of fungal origin as, for example, from fungi of the genera Aspergillus, Penicillum, Mucor, Rhizomucor, Rhizopus, Thermomyces, which are marketed, for example, under the trade names Lipase A "Amano" 6, Lypolyve AN, Lipase G "Amano" 50, Lipomod® 338P-L338P, Lipase M "Amano" 10, Piccnate®, Palatase®, Lipase F-AP15, Lipase L036P-L036P, Lipase F-DS, Lipomod® 627P-L627P, Lipopan® F, NovoLime, Greasex, NovoCor AD, Newlase F, Lipozyme® TL IM, Lipase UL, Lipolase®, Lipolase® Ultra, Lipo Prime®, Lipex®, Lipomod® 621P-L621 or Lipomod® 187P-L187P; or from yeasts as, for example, from yeasts of the genus Candida, which are marketed, for example, under the trade names Novozym® 435, Noopazyme®, Lipomod® 34P-L034P, Lypolyve CC, Lipase MY, Lipase AY "Amano" 30, Resinase®, Lipase AYS "Amano" or Lipase II. Preferably a lipase of fungal origin is used.

Cellulase

[0091] Cellulase is any of several enzymes produced chiefly by fungi, bacteria, and protozoans that break down the cellulose molecule into monosaccharides, such as β-glucose, or shorter polysaccharides and oligosaccharides.

[0092] Several different kinds of cellulases are known, which differ structurally and mechanistically. Synonyms, derivatives, and specific enzymes associated with the name "cellulase" include, for example, endo-1,4-β-D-glucanase (β-1,4-glucanase, β-1,4-endoglucan hydrolase, endoglucanase D, 1,4-(1,3,1,4)-β-D-glucan-4-glucanohydrolase), glycosyl hydrolase, alkali cellulase

[0093] In the context of the present invention, the cellulase has preferably endo-1,4-β-D-glucanase (EC 3.2.1.4) or glycosyl hydrolase activity (EC 3.2.1).

[0094] Cellulases showing different activity may be obtained commercially, for example, from the company Novozymes as Carezyme® 1000L or Celluclast® 1.5L.

Oxidase

[0095] In the context of the invention, the oxidase refers to an enzyme that catalyses an oxidation-reduction reaction It includes, for example, glucose oxidase, monoamine oxidase, cytochrome P450 oxidase, NADPH oxidase, xanthine oxidase, and laccase. Oxidase is available through, for example, the company Novozymes.

Pectinase

[0096] In the context of the invention, the pectinase refers to an enzyme that breaks down pectin, a polysaccharide found in plant cell walls. It is commonly referred to as pectic enzymes, and includes pectolyase, pectozyme, and polygalacturonase. Pectinase is available through, for example, the company Novozymes.

Mannanase

[0097] In the context of the invention, the mannanase refers to mannohydrolase, which includes mannanhydroxylase, i.e., endomannanase, as well as mannoside mannohydrolase, i.e., exo-mannanase. The term also includes mannohydrolases including all possible specificities, such as α, β, 1,2, 1,3, 1,4, 1,6, L, D. This means that the mannanases that cleave any polysaccharide containing mannose in a bond involving at least one mannose sugar residue (a-mannosidase: E.C. 3.2.1.24; β-mannosidase: E.C. 3.2.1.25, etc.) are suitable for the purposes of the present invention. Mannanase is available through, for example, the companies DuPont and Novozymes.

[0098] In particular, when the enzyme combination comprises a mannanase, it is preferably a 1,4-β-mannosidase that randomly hydrolyzes (1,4) bonds in mannans, galactomannans and glucomannans, such as, for example, Mannaway® from Novozymes company.

[0099] Commercially available enzymes are usually supplied in the form of aqueous solutions of various concentrations, so that the appropriate amounts of the commercial enzymes will be used in each case to provide the appropriate percentages of the enzyme combination, as well as the desired concentrations in the composition of the invention.

[0100] Alternatively, the content of enzymatic active matter can be expressed as activity units, according to the information usually contained in the technical sheets corresponding to the enzymatic products.

[0101] Thus, for example, for proteases, their enzymatic activity can be measured in units called KNPU (Kilo Novo Protease Units) defined in terms of the amount of protease capable of hydrolyzing a certain amount of dimethylcasein to peptides per minute, under certain conditions, as described, for example, in the international patent application WO-A-03/018734.

[0102] The enzymatic activity α-amylases can be measured using the KNU unit (Kilo Novo alpha-Amylase Units), defined as the amount of enzyme which hydrolyzes 5.26 g of starch per hour, according to certain conditions, as indicated, for example, in the US patent application US-A-2012/0122754.

[0103] The enzymatic activity of lipases is measured in units called LU (Lipase Units), or KLU (1 KLU = 1000 LU) defined according to the hydrolysis assay of tributyrin (glycerine tributyrate), so that 1 LU is the amount of enzyme that liberates 1 µmol of butyric acid per minute, according to specified standard conditions, as described, for example, in the article Salis et al., Comparison among immobilised lipases on macroporous polypropylene toward biodiesel synthesis, J. Mol. Catal. B: Enzym., 2008, 54, 19-26 or in the international patent application WO-A-00/34450.

[0104] The enzymatic activity of cellulases can be measured in terms of filter paper units (FPU) per millilitre of original undiluted enzyme solution, as disclosed, for example, in Adney et al., Measurement of cellulase activities, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, 1996.

[0105] The enzymatic activity of oxidase, for example glucose oxidase, can be measured in terms of reaction with a fluorescent peroxidase substrate, as disclosed by the supplier (Sigma-Aldrich)

[0106] The enzymatic activity of pectinase can be measured in terms of polygalacturonase units per millilitre (PGU/ml).

[0107] The enzymatic activity of mannanases can be measured as mannanase MIUM units, defined according to an assay in which the amount of reducing sugars released from an appropriate substrate is determined, as described, for example, in the article Rättö et al, Enzymatic hydrolysis of isolated and fibre-bound galactoglucomannans from pine-wood and pine kraft pulp, Appl. Microbiol. Biotechnol., 1993, 40, 449-454.Usually the detergent composition of the invention comprises stabilizing agents such as, for example, glycerine, polyethylene glycol or propylene glycol, to improve the stability of the enzymes therein.

[0108] In that preferred embodiment, the content of each of the enzymes in the detergent composition of the invention does not usually exceed 2% by weight of enzymatic active matter on the total weight of the composition, being generally comprised between 0.0001% and 1.5% by weight, more preferably comprised between 0.001% and 1.0% by weight, yet more preferably comprised between 0.01% and 0.7% by weight, and yet more preferably comprised between 0.05% and 0.5% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

pH regulating agent

[0109] The composition generally contains a pH regulating agent, for example, of basic nature, such as alkaline hydroxides; ammonia; mono-, di- or tri-alkylamines; mono-, di-, or tri-alkanolamines; or of acid nature, such as mineral acids as, for example, hydrochloric acid or sulfuric acid, or carboxylic acids such as, for example, acetic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, or citric acid; or mixtures thereof. Preferably, the pH regulating agent comprises a mixture of at least one alkanolamine and a carboxylic acid, more preferably a mixture of at least one alkanolamine and citric acid, and still more preferably a mixture of at least one alkanolamine selected from monoethanolamine, triethanolamine, and mixtures thereof, and citric acid. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the pH regulating agent comprises a mixture of monoethanolamine and citric acid.

[0110] Generally, the composition of the invention contains said pH regulating agents for adjusting the pH value in a range comprised between 7 and 10, preferably between 8 and 9.

[0111] The content of pH regulating agent in the composition of the invention does not usually exceed 20% by weight on the total weight of the composition, preferably the content is comprised between 4% and 20% by weight, more preferably between 5% and 15% by weight, and yet more preferably between 7% and 15% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

[0112] In a more preferred embodiment, the detergent composition comprises monoethanolamine in a range comprised between 3% and 15% by weight, preferably between 3% and 10% by weight on the total weight of the composition, and citric acid in a range comprised between 1% and 5% by weight, preferably between 1% and 3% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

Polymer

[0113] In a preferred embodiment, the composition of the invention further comprises at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of soil repellent polymer, anti-redeposition polymer, and dye-transfer inhibitor.

[0114] Soil repellent polymers are materials that are applied prior to exposure to soil. These polymers are substantive to the fabric and modify the surface to make it more resistant to oily soils. Soil repellent polymers are usually selected from acrylic acid polymers, fluoro chemicals, terephthalate-based products. Those polymers are commercially available from, for example, the company Clariant as Texcare® SRN 170.

[0115] Anti-redeposition polymers are chemicals that prevent soil once removed from a fabric, from re-depositing on the fabric during the wash cycle. Anti-redeposition agents are polymers that are added to the detergent formulation to suspend the soil and minimize redeposition on the garment. Those polymers are commercially available from, for example, the company Rohm & Haas as Acusol® 505N.

[0116] It is however true that the ability to act as a soil release polymer and the ability to act as an anti-redeposition agent are not mutually exclusive. Some polymers have both attributes.

[0117] Dye-transfer inhibitors are used in laundry detergent compositions to avoid recolouring of fabrics when fabrics of different shades are washed together, and there exists the danger that the dye of coloured fabrics if washed out into the washing water. Polyvinylpyrrolidon (PVP) homopolymers and copolymers thereof inhibit the transfer of dye to the fabric, as well vinylpyridine based polymers. Those polymers are commercially available from, for example, the company BASF as different Sokalan® HP grades, and from the company Ashland as Cromabond® types.

[0118] In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises a dye-transfer inhibitor.

[0119] In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises a combination of an anti-redeposition polymer and a dye-transfer inhibitor.

[0120] In a more preferred embodiment, the composition comprises a combination of a soil repellent polymer, an anti-redeposition polymer and a dye-transfer inhibitor.

[0121] The content of each of the polymers in the detergent composition of the invention does not usually exceed 2% by weight on the total weight of the composition, being generally comprised between 0.1% and 2% by weight, more preferably comprised between 0.2% and 1.5% by weight, yet more preferably comprised between 0.3% and 1% by weight, and yet more preferably comprised between 0.5% and 1% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

Additive

[0122] The composition of the invention may further comprise at least one additive selected from the group comprising sequestering agent, hydrotrope, optical brightener, antimicrobial active ingredient, corrosion inhibitor, antioxidant, opacifier, fragrance, dyestuff, and mixtures thereof.

Sequestering agent

[0123] The detergent composition may comprise at least one sequestering agent.

[0124] As is well known to the skilled in the art, sequestering agents, also known as chelating agents, are substances capable of forming soluble complexes with metal ions. Specifically, in the field of detergency, its presence allows improving the action of surfactants, by removing metal ions from the medium, mainly calcium and magnesium, thus decreasing the hardness of water and reducing the formation of insoluble salts.

[0125] Some of the sequestering agents suitable for use in the context of the present invention are, for example, polyphosphates, especially alkaline tripolyphosphates and pyrophosphates; phosphonates such as, for example, HEDP (1-hydroxyethane 1,1-diphosphonic acid), DTPMP (diethylenetriamine pentamethylenephosphonic acid), EDTMP (ethylene diamine tetramethylenephosphonic acid), ATMP (amino trimethylenephosphonic acid), or HDTMP (hexamethylenediamine tetramethylenephosphonic acid), or their alkaline salts; hydroxypolycarboxylates, such as citric, tartaric or gluconic acid; aminopolycarboxylates, such as EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), DTPA (diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid), NTA (nitrilotriacetic acid), GLDA (glutamic acid, N,N-diacetic), MGDA (methylglycine diacetic acid), IDS (iminodisuccinic acid), EDDS (ethylenediamine-N,N'-disuccinic acid) or their alkaline salts; polycarboxylates: itaconic acid or its alkali salts; or mixtures thereof.

[0126] Preferably, the sequestering agent is selected from the group consisting of citric acid, tartaric acid, gluconic acid, phosphonates, aminocarboxylates, polycarboxylates, their sodium salts; and mixtures thereof; more preferably the sequestering agent is selected from the group consisting of citric acid, phosphonates, and mixtures thereof.

[0127] If present, the content of sequestering agent in the composition of the invention does not usually exceed 10% by weight on the total weight of the composition, preferably the content is comprised between 0.1% and 7.5% by weight, more preferably between 0.2% and 5% by weight, and yet more preferably between 0.5% and 2.5% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

Hydrotrope

[0128] Additionally, the composition may contain a hydrotropic agent.

[0129] Hydrotropes, as is well known to the skilled in the art, are products that increase the solubility and miscibility of organic salts in water, and provide greater homogeneity to the products in solution. Some hydrotropes suitable for use in the detergent composition of the present invention are, for example, toluenesulfonates, xylenesulfonates, cumenesulfonates, and methylnaphthalenesulfonates, in the form of their monoethanolammonium, diethanolammonium, and triethanolammonium salts, or as alkaline salts, preferably, sodium or potassium salts; or it is a short-chain alkyl sulfate, such as, for example, n-octyl sulfate, 2-ethylhexyl sulfate, or its alkaline salts, preferably sodium or potassium salts.

[0130] The content of hydrotrope in the composition of the invention does not usually exceed 10% by weight on the total weight of the composition, preferably the content is comprised between 0.1% and 7.5% by weight, more preferably between 0.2% and 5% by weight, and yet more preferably between 0.5% and 2.5% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

Optical brightener

[0131] The composition may contain an optical brightener. The optical brightener is preferably selected from hydrophobic brighteners, stilbene brighteners, biphenyl type brighteners, or a mixture thereof. Suitable brighteners include: di-styryl biphenyl compounds, e.g. Tinopal® CBS-X, di-amino stilbene di-sulfonic acid compounds, e.g. Tinopal® DMS pure Xtra and Blankophor® HRH, and Pyrazoline compounds, e.g. Blankophor® SN, and coumarin compounds, e.g. Tinopal® SWN.

[0132] The content of optical brightener is usually comprised between 0.05% and 2% by weight, preferably between 0.1% and 1.5%, yet more preferably between 0.2% and 1% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

Anti-bacterial active

[0133] Anti-bacterial active agent may be present in the composition of the invention.

[0134] The anti-bacterial actives may be selected from the group comprising benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, sodium benzoate, 5-bromo-5-nitro-1,3 dioxane, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, alkyl trimethyl ammonium bromide, N-(hydroxymethyl)-N-(1,3-dihydroxymethyl-2,5-dioxo-4-imidaxolidinyl-N'- (hydroxy methyl) urea, 1,3-dimethyol-5,5-dimethylhydantoin, phenoxyethanol, lactic acid, sorbic acid, sorbate, formaldehyde, butyl paraben, ethyl paraben, methyl paraben, propyl paraben, 2-phenoxyethanol, isothiazolinones (such as benzisothiazolinone, methylisothiazolinone, 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazol-3-one; 2-methyl-4-isothiazol-3-one), 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane, essential oils, natural extracts, and mixtures thereof. Preferably it is selected from isothiazolinones, essential oils and natural extracts. In a preferred embodiment it is selected from isothiazolinones. In another preferred embodiment it is selected from a natural extract. In another preferred embodiment it is selected from an essential oil.

[0135] The content of preservative is usually comprised between 0.01% by weight to 3% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

[0136] In a preferred embodiment, the unit dose of the invention comprises a water-soluble film and a composition comprising:

a) a combination of glycereth cocoate and ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol in a ratio glycereth cocoate:ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol by weight comprised between 80:20 and 20:80, preferably between 50:50 and 75:25,

b) a combination of organic solvents selected from the group of monohydric C₁-C₈ alcohols, polyhydric alcohols, and mixtures thereof, preferably selected from the group consisting of methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, i-butanol, n-pentanol, i-pentanol, n-hexanol, i-hexanol, 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, 2-ethylhexanol, 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol, butyl diglycol, butyl glycol, glycerine, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, PEG, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, dipropylene glycol, and mixtures thereof, more preferably a combination of glycerine and propylene glycol, and yet more preferably in a ratio glycerine:propylene glycol comprised between 80:20 and 20:80 by weight, preferably between 50:50 and 75:25 by weight,

c) an alkali salt of alkyl ether sulphate, preferably sodium lauryl sulphate with 2 moles of ethylene oxide,

d) an alkali, ammonium or alkanolamine salt of a fatty acid with a saturated or unsaturated, hydroxylated or non-hydroxylated hydrocarbon chain having 8 to 18 carbon atoms, preferably a fatty acid with a saturated hydrocarbon chain having 12 to 14 carbon atoms monoethanolamine salt, and

e) at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of protease, α-amylase, lipase, cellulase, pectinase, oxidase, and mannanase, preferably a combination of enzymes comprising protease, α-amylase, mannanase and pectinase, and more preferably a combination of enzymes consisting of protease, α-amylase, mannanase and pectinase,

wherein the amount of the combination of glycereth cocoate and ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol is comprised between 10% and 50% by weight, preferably, between 15% and 45% by weight, more preferably between 20% and 40% by weight, yet more preferably between 25% and 35% by weight, and yet more preferably about 30% by weight on the total weight of the composition,
wherein the amount of the combination of organic solvents is comprised between 5% and 40% by weight, preferably between 15% and 35% by weight, more preferably between 20% and 30% by weight, and more preferably between 23% and 28% by weight on the total weight of the composition, and
wherein the content of water is not above 15% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

[0137] In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises further monoethanolamine and citric acid, and polymers, preferably a dye transfer inhibitor.

[0138] In another preferred embodiment, the unit dose of the invention comprises a water-soluble film and a composition comprising:

a) a combination of glycereth cocoate and ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol in a ratio glycereth cocoate:ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol by weight comprised between 80:20 and 20:80, preferably between 50:50 and 75:25,

b) a combination of organic solvents selected from the group of monohydric C₁-C₈ alcohols, polyhydric alcohols, and mixtures thereof, preferably selected from the group consisting of methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, i-butanol, n-pentanol, i-pentanol, n-hexanol, i-hexanol, 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, 2-ethylhexanol, 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol, butyl diglycol, butyl glycol, glycerine, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, PEG, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, dipropylene glycol, and mixtures thereof, more preferably a combination of glycerine and propylene glycol, and yet more preferably in a ratio glycerine:propylene glycol comprised between 80:20 and 20:80 by weight, preferably between 50:50 and 75:25 by weight,

c) an alkali salt of alkyl ether sulphate, preferably sodium lauryl sulphate with 2 moles of ethylene oxide

d) an alkali, ammonium or alkanolamine salt of a fatty acid with a saturated or unsaturated, hydroxylated or non-hydroxylated hydrocarbon chain having 8 to 18 carbon atoms, preferably a fatty acid with a saturated hydrocarbon chain having 12 to 14 carbon atoms monoethanolamine salt,

e) at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of protease, α-amylase, lipase, cellulase, pectinase, oxidase, and mannanase, preferably a combination of enzymes comprising protease, α-amylase, mannanase and pectinase, and more preferably a combination of enzymes consisting of protease, α-amylase, mannanase and pectinase, and

f) a sophorolipid,
wherein the sophorolipid is defined by general formula (I)

wherein:

R¹ and R² are individually H or an acetyl group;

R³ is a saturated or unsaturated, hydroxylated or non-hydroxylated hydrocarbon group having 1 to 9 carbon atoms;

R⁴ is a saturated or unsaturated, hydroxylated or non-hydroxylated hydrocarbon group having 1 to 19 carbon atoms, with the proviso that the total number of carbon atoms in the groups R³ and R⁴ does not exceed 20;

R⁵ is H or a lactone ring formed with R⁶; and

R⁶ is OH or a lactone ring formed with R⁵,

wherein the amount of the combination of glycereth cocoate and ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol is comprised between 10% and 50% by weight, preferably, between 15% and 45% by weight, more preferably between 20% and 40% by weight, yet more preferably between 25% and 35% by weight, and yet more preferably about 30% by weight on the total weight of the composition,
wherein the amount of the combination of organic solvents is comprised between 5% and 40% by weight, preferably between 15% and 35% by weight, more preferably between 20% and 30% by weight, and more preferably between 23% and 28% by weight on the total weight of the composition, and
wherein the content of water is not above 15% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

[0139] In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises further monoethanolamine and citric acid, and polymers, preferably a dye transfer inhibitor.

[0140] In another preferred embodiment, the unit dose of the invention comprises a water-soluble film and a composition comprising:

a) a combination of glycereth cocoate and ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol in a ratio glycereth cocoate:ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol by weight comprised between 80:20 and 20:80, preferably between 50:50 and 75:25,

b) a combination of organic solvents selected from the group of monohydric C₁-C₈ alcohols, polyhydric alcohols, and mixtures thereof, preferably selected from the group consisting of methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, i-butanol, n-pentanol, i-pentanol, n-hexanol, i-hexanol, 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, 2-ethylhexanol, 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol, butyl diglycol, butyl glycol, glycerine, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, PEG, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, dipropylene glycol, and mixtures thereof, more preferably a combination of glycerine and propylene glycol, and yet more preferably in a ratio glycerine:propylene glycol comprised between 80:20 and 20:80 by weight, preferably between 50:50 and 75:25 by weight,

c) an alkali salt of alkyl ether sulphate, preferably sodium lauryl sulphate with 2 moles of ethylene oxide

d) an alkali, ammonium or alkanolamine salt of a fatty acid with a saturated or unsaturated, hydroxylated or non-hydroxylated hydrocarbon chain having 8 to 18 carbon atoms, preferably a fatty acid with a saturated hydrocarbon chain having 12 to 14 carbon atoms monoethanolamine salt,

e) at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of protease, α-amylase, lipase, cellulase, pectinase, oxidase, and mannanase, preferably a combination of enzymes comprising protease, α-amylase, mannanase and pectinase, and more preferably a combination of enzymes consisting of protease, α-amylase, mannanase and pectinase, and

f) a biosurfactant selected from

(D-pentose and D-glucose), oligomeric, C_8-10-alkyl glycosides,
D-pentose, oligomeric C_10-12-alkylglycosides, and
mixtures thereof,
wherein the amount of the combination of glycereth cocoate and ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol is comprised between 10% and 50% by weight, preferably, between 15% and 45% by weight, more preferably between 20% and 40% by weight, yet more preferably between 25% and 35% by weight, and yet more preferably about 30% by weight on the total weight of the composition,
wherein the amount of the combination of organic solvents is comprised between 5% and 40% by weight, preferably between 15% and 35% by weight, more preferably between 20% and 30% by weight, and more preferably between 23% and 28% by weight on the total weight of the composition, and
wherein the content of water is not above 15% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

[0141] In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises further monoethanolamine and citric acid, and polymers, preferably a dye transfer inhibitor.

[0142] The liquid laundry detergent usually shows a viscosity comprised between 300 cps to 900 cps, preferably, between 350 cps to 800 cps, more preferably between 400 cps to 750 cps.

[0143] Further the unit dose of the present invention shows good stability regarding appearance, pH and viscosity after storage at 5° C, 22-25° C and 40° C during at least 3 months.

[0144] Surprisingly the unit dose of the invention comprising the liquid laundry composition shows good overall detergency, in particular on particulate, greasy soils and enzymatic removable soils, as disclosed in the examples.

Process

[0145] Those skilled in the art will know how to make the unit dose and laundry detergent composition of the present invention using known techniques in the art.

[0146] During manufacture, a first water-soluble film may be shaped to comprise at least one open chamber into which the liquid laundry detergent composition is added. A second water-soluble film is then laid over the first film in such an orientation as to close the opening of the chamber. The first and second films are then sealed together along a seal region using known sealing means such as solvent, heat or a mixture thereof. In the case of three or four chambers, the process is adapted accordingly using known techniques in the art, for example, in EP-A-1375637, WO-A-2014/170882, or EP-A-3381834.

[0147] The detergent formulations are prepared by mixing the components and adjusted to a pH comprised between 7 and 10, preferably between 8 and 9, according to procedures well known in the art.

Use

[0148] Another aspect of the present invention is the use of the unit dose fabric comprising a water-soluble film and a laundry liquid detergent composition of the invention in laundry washing.

[0149] The present invention comprises the following embodiments:

1.- A unit dose of a liquid laundry detergent composition in a water-soluble pouch comprising a water-soluble film and a composition, characterized in that it comprises:

a) a combination of glycereth cocoate and ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol in a ratio glycereth cocoate:ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol by weight comprised between 80:20 and 20:80, preferably between 50:50 and 75:25,

b) a combination of organic solvents selected from the group of monohydric C₁-C₈ alcohols, polyhydric alcohols, and mixtures thereof,

c) an anionic surfactant selected from the group consisting of alkali, ammonium and alkanolamine salts of alkyl ether sulphate, alkyl sulphate and alkylbenzene sulphonate,

d) an alkali, ammonium or alkanolamine salt of a fatty acid with a saturated or unsaturated, hydroxylated or non-hydroxylated hydrocarbon chain having 8 to 18 carbon atoms,

wherein the amount of the combination of glycereth cocoate and ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol is comprised between 10% and 50% by weight on the total weight of the composition,
wherein the amount of the combination of glycerine and propylene glycol is comprised between 5% and 40% by weight over the total weight of the composition, and
wherein the content of water is not more than 15% on the total weight of the composition.

2.- The unit dose according to embodiment 1, characterized in that it comprises more than two chambers, preferably three or four cambers.

3.- The unit dose according to embodiment 3, characterized in that the liquid laundry detergent composition is comprised in more than one chamber.

4.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, characterized in that weight of the unit dose is comprised between 5 g and 50 g, preferably between 10 g and 40 g, more preferably between 15 g and 35 g, yet more preferably between 20 g and 30 g, and yet more preferably about 25 g.

5.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, characterized in that he water-soluble film is selected from polyvinyl alcohols, milk protein, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyalkylene oxides, acrylamide, acrylic acid, cellulose, cellulose ethers, cellulose esters, cellulose amides, polyvinyl acetates, polycarboxylic acids and salts, polyaminoacids, polyamides, polyacrylamide, copolymers of maleic/acrylic acids, polysaccharides, and natural gums.

6.- The unit dose according to embodiment 5, characterized in that the water-soluble film is selected from polyvinyl alcohols, and milk protein.

7.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, characterized in that the content of ethylene oxide in glycereth cocoate is comprised between 3 and 10 moles, preferably between 4 and 9, and more preferably between 5 and 8.

8.- The unit dose according to embodiment 7, characterized in that the content of ethylene oxide in glycereth cocoate is 7 moles.

9.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7, characterized in that the number of moles of ethylene oxide in the ethoxylated fatty alcohol C_12-14 is comprised between 2 and 12, preferably between 4 and 10, more preferably between 6 and 8.

10.- The unit dose according to embodiment 9, characterized in that the content of ethylene oxide in the ethoxylated fatty alcohol C_12-14 is 7 moles.

11.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, characterized in that the content of the combination on non-ionic surfactants is comprised between 15% and 45% by weight. preferably between 10% and 38%, more preferably between 15% and 35% by weight, more preferably between 20% and 30% by weight, and yet more preferably comprised between 25% and 28% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

12.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, characterized in that the combination of organic solvents is selected from the group consisting of methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, i-butanol, n-pentanol, i-pentanol, n-hexanol, i-hexanol, 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, 2-ethylhexanol, 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol, butyl diglycol, butyl glycol, glycerine, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, PEG, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, dipropylene glycol, and mixtures thereof.

13.- The unit dose according to embodiment 12, characterized in that the combination of organic solvents is a combination of glycerine and propylene glycol.

14.- The unit dose according to embodiment 13, characterized in that the combination of glycerine and propylene glycol is in a ratio glycerine:propylene glycol comprised between 80:20 and 20:80 by weight, preferably between 50:50 and 75:25 by weight.

15.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 14, characterized in that the content of the combination of organic solvents is comprised between 10% and 38%, preferably between 15% and 35% by weight, more preferably between 20% and 30% by weight, and yet more preferably between 25% and 28% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

16.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 15, characterized in that the anionic surfactant is sodium lauryl sulphate comprising between 0.5 and 10 moles of ethylene oxide, preferably between 0.5 and 5, more preferably between 0.5 and 2, and more preferably 2 moles of ethylene oxide.

17.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 16, characterized in that the content of anionic surfactant is comprised between 10% and 40% by weight, preferably between 15% and 35% by weight, more preferably between 20% and 30% by weight, and more preferably between 23% and 28% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

18.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 17, characterized in that the soap is a monoethanolamine salt of a fatty acid having a C_12-14 saturated hydrocarbon chain.

19.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 18, characterized in that the content of the soap is comprised between 5% and 30% by weight, preferably between 7.5% and 25% by weight, more preferably between 10% and 20% by weight, and more preferably between 12 and 18% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

20.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 19, characterized in that the laundry liquid composition further comprises a biosurfactant selected from

1) sophorolipid,

2) (D-pentose and D-glucose), oligomeric, C_8-10-alkyl glycosides,

3) D-pentose, oligomeric C_10-12-alkylglycosides, and

4) mixtures thereof.

21.- The unit dose according to embodiment 20, characterized in that the biosurfactant is a sophorolipid surfactant comprising a sophorolipid according to general formula (I)

wherein:

R¹ and R² are individually H or an acetyl group;

R³ is a saturated or unsaturated, hydroxylated or non-hydroxylated hydrocarbon group having 1 to 9 carbon atoms;

R⁴ is a saturated or unsaturated, hydroxylated or non-hydroxylated hydrocarbon group having 1 to 19 carbon atoms, with the proviso that the total number of carbon atoms in the groups R³ and R⁴ does not exceed 20;

R⁵ is H or a lactone ring formed with R⁶; and

R⁶ is OH or a lactone ring formed with R⁵.

22.- The unit dose according to embodiment 20, characterized in that the biosurfactant is D-pentose and D-glucose), oligomeric, C_8-10-alkyl glycosides, D-pentose, oligomeric C_10-12-alkylglycosides, and mixtures thereof.

23.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 20 to 22, characterized in the content of biosurfactant is comprised between 1% and 25% by weight, preferably between 2% and 15% by weight, more preferably between 3% and 10% by weight, more preferably between 4% and 7% by weight, and yet more preferably between 5% and 6% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

24.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 23, characterized in that the laundry liquid composition further comprises at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of protease, α-amylase, lipase, cellulase, pectinase, oxidase, and mannanase.

25.- The unit dose according to embodiment 24, characterized in that it comprises a combination of enzymes comprising a protease, an α-amylase, a mannanase, and a pectinase.

26.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 25, characterized in that the laundry liquid composition comprises a pH regulating agent.

27.- The unit dose according to embodiment 26, characterized in that the pH regulating agent comprises a mixture of monoethanolamine and citric acid.

28.- The unit dose according to embodiment 27, characterized in that the pH regulating agent comprises monoethanolamine in a range comprised between 3% and 15% by weight on the total weight of the composition, and citric acid in a range comprised between 1% and 5% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

29.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 28, characterized in that the laundry liquid composition further comprises at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of soil repellent polymer, anti-redeposition polymer, and dye-transfer inhibitor.

30.- The unit dose according to embodiment 29, characterized in that it comprises a dye-transfer inhibitor.

31.- The unit dose according to any one of embodiments 1 to 30, characterized in that the laundry liquid composition further comprises at least one additive selected from the group comprising sequestering agent, hydrotrope, optical brightener, antimicrobial active ingredient, corrosion inhibitor, antioxidant, opacifier, fragrance, dyestuff, and mixtures thereof.

32.- The use of the unit dose according to any of embodiments 1 to 31 in laundry washing.

[0150] In the following examples, particular embodiments of the composition of the invention are shown.

Examples

Examples 1-7: Liquid laundry composition

[0151] Different formulations corresponding to the liquid laundry composition of the invention were prepared using the amounts detailed in Table I, expressed as % of product as it is:

TABLE I

Component	Example
	1	2	3	4	5	6	7
LES Na salt (70% a. m.)	22	21	23	26	26	26	26
C12-14 7 EO	11	10	9	13	6	12	6
Glycereth-6 cocoate	15	16	17	13	18	12	17
Sophorolipid1	0	0	2	1	1	1	1
C12-14 fatty acid	10	7	11	9	9	9	9
Glycerine	14	15	16	13	13	19.5	19.5
Propylene glycol	12	11	10	13	13	6.5	6.5
Protease2	1.2	1.2	1.2	1.2	1.2	1.2	1.2
α-amylase2	0.5	0.5	0.5	0.5	0.5	0.5	0.5
pectinase2	0.3	0.3	0.3	0.3	0.3	0.3	0.3
mannanase2	0.1	0.1	0.1	0.1	0.1	0.1	0.1
Dye-transfer inhibitor2	0.25	0.25	0.25	0.25	0.25	0.25	0.25
Citric acid	1.3	1.4	1.2	1.5	1.5	1.5	1.5
Monoethanolamine	6	7	5	4	4	4	4
Water	q.s.100%

q.s. = quantum satis (sufficient quantity) a.m. = active matter 1: Rewoferm® SL 2: Product tel quel

[0152] In the following table the ratios by weight between the non-ionic surfactants and the organic solvents used in the examples are shown:

TABLE II

Components	Example
	1	2	3	4	5	6	7
Glycereth-6 cocoate: C12-14 7 EO	1.36:1	1.6:1	1.89:1	1:1	3:1	1:1	2.83:1
Glycerine:Propylene glycol	1.17:1	1.36:1	1.6:1	1:1	1:1	3:1	3:1

[0153] The detergent formulations were prepared by mixing the components and adjusted to a pH comprised between 7 and 10.

[0154] The formulations were tested according to ASTM D 1173 standard to determine their foaming power.

[0155] These formulations were subjected to a stability test at 5° C, 20° C and 40° C for 3 months, and they maintained substantially stable the appearance, pH value and viscosity.

Example 8: Washing performance

[0156] Compositions prepared according to Examples 4-7 were tested using a MIELE Professional - PW 6055 Plus washing machine, in a synthetic/cotton program, without pre-washing, at 30° C, and using water with a hardness of 25° HF. It was used a dose of 26 g of detergent. The washing machine was filled with 2 kg of pre-treated 100% cotton towels, and 3 sets of standard soiled fabrics were introduced in each washing. Washings were replicated twice. Variability within each detergency value was < 3%.

[0157] In the following table the results obtained using the unit dose of the present invention, comparative compositions and a liquid laundry detergent composition commercially available are shown:

TABLE III

Example	Appearance	Stability	Enzymatic removable soils (% soil removal)	Particulate and greasy soil (% soil removal)	Overall detergency (% soil removal)
4 Glycereth cocoate: C12-14 7 EO = 50:50	Clear	OK	59.9	48.1	53.6
5 Glycereth cocoate: C12-14 7 EO = 75:25	Clear	OK	58.3	47.1	52.3
Comparative Example 1 100% Glycereth cocoate	Clear	OK	58.4	45.7	51.6
Comparative Example 2 Glycereth cocoate: C12-14 7 EO = 15:85	Turbid	NOK	60.1	49.1	54.2
Commercial product	Clear	OK	52.6	52.0	52.3

[0158] Composition of Example 4, 5 and Comparative Example 1 and Comparative Example 2 contained a ratio glycerine:propylene glycol by weight = 1:1. The rest of components of Comparative Examples were the same as in Example 4 and 5.

[0159] The appearance was assessed at time = 0, i.e. after the preparation of the components by mixing.

[0160] These formulations were subjected to a stability test at 5° C, 20° C and 40° C for 3 months and appearance, pH and viscosity were assessed.

[0161] For assessing detergency, the following standard soiled fabrics were used:

• Enzymatic removable stains: E-116 (Cotton soiled with blood/milk/ink), E-112 (Cotton soiled with cocoa), E-160 (Cotton soiled with chocolate cream), E-163 (Cotton soiled with porridge), WFK-10SG (Cotton soiled with Tomato Beef Sauce), and E-117 (Polyester/cotton (65/35), soiled with blood/milk/ink).
• Particulate and greasy soils: E-101 (Cotton soiled with carbon black/olive oil), WFK-10D (Cotton soiled with Pigment/Sebum), E-141 (Cotton soiled with lipstick), WFK-10TE (Cotton soiled with Clay), E-104 (Polyester/cotton (65/35), soiled with carbon black/olive oil), and WFK-20D (Polyester/cotton (65/35) Pigment / Sebum).

[0162] Standard soiled fabrics having reference "E" were obtained from Empa (Materials Science and Technology, Switzerland), and those having reference "WFK" from Wäschereiforschung Krefeld (Germany).

[0163] Soil removal (%) was determined according to standard methods, such as that disclosed in, for example, A.I.S.E. Laundry Detergent Testing Guidelines, v.5.2, June 2018, Brussels.

[0164] It was observed that compositions according to the invention showed high performance on particulate, greasy soils and on enzymatic removable soils.

Claims

1. A unit dose of a liquid laundry detergent composition in a water-soluble pouch comprising a water-soluble film and a composition, characterized in that it comprises:

a) a combination of glycereth cocoate and ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol in a ratio glycereth cocoate:ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol by weight comprised between 80:20 and 20:80, preferably between 50:50 and 75:25,

b) a combination of organic solvents selected from the group of monohydric C₁-C₈ alcohols, polyhydric alcohols, and mixtures thereof,

c) an anionic surfactant selected from the group consisting of alkali, ammonium and alkanolamine salts of alkyl ether sulphate, alkyl sulphate and alkylbenzene sulphonate,

d) an alkali, ammonium or alkanolamine salt of a fatty acid with a saturated or unsaturated, hydroxylated or non-hydroxylated hydrocarbon chain having 8 to 18 carbon atoms,

wherein the amount of the combination of glycereth cocoate and ethoxylated C_12-14 fatty alcohol is comprised between 10% and 50% by weight on the total weight of the composition,
wherein the amount of the combination of glycerine and propylene glycol is comprised between 5% and 40% by weight over the total weight of the composition, and
wherein the content of water is not more than 15% on the total weight of the composition.

2. The unit dose according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises more than two chambers, preferably three or four cambers.

3. The unit dose according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that he water-soluble film is selected from polyvinyl alcohols, milk protein, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyalkylene oxides, acrylamide, acrylic acid, cellulose, cellulose ethers, cellulose esters, cellulose amides, polyvinyl acetates, polycarboxylic acids and salts, polyaminoacids, polyamides, polyacrylamide, copolymers of maleic/acrylic acids, polysaccharides, and natural gums.

4. The unit dose according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the content of the combination on non-ionic surfactants is comprised between 15% and 45% by weight. preferably between 10% and 38%, more preferably between 15% and 35% by weight, more preferably between 20% and 30% by weight, and yet more preferably comprised between 25% and 28% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

5. The unit dose according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the combination of organic solvents is selected from the group consisting of methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, i-butanol, n-pentanol, i-pentanol, n-hexanol, i-hexanol, 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, 2-ethylhexanol, 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol, butyl diglycol, butyl glycol, glycerine, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, PEG, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, dipropylene glycol, and mixtures thereof.

6. The unit dose according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the content of the combination of organic solvents is comprised between 10% and 38%, preferably between 15% and 35% by weight, more preferably between 20% and 30% by weight, and yet more preferably between 25% and 28% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

7. The unit dose according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the content of anionic surfactant is comprised between 10% and 40% by weight, preferably between 15% and 35% by weight, more preferably between 20% and 30% by weight, and more preferably between 23% and 28% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

8. The unit dose according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the content of the soap is comprised between 5% and 30% by weight, preferably between 7.5% and 25% by weight, more preferably between 10% and 20% by weight, and more preferably between 12 and 18% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

9. The unit dose according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the laundry liquid composition further comprises a biosurfactant selected from

1) sophorolipid,

2) (D-pentose and D-glucose), oligomeric, C_8-10-alkyl glycosides,

3) D-pentose, oligomeric C_10-12-alkylglycosides, and

4) mixtures thereof.

10. The unit dose according to claim 9, characterized in the content of biosurfactant is comprised between 1% and 25% by weight, preferably between 2% and 15% by weight, more preferably between 3% and 10% by weight, more preferably between 4% and 7% by weight, and yet more preferably between 5% and 6% by weight on the total weight of the composition.

11. The unit dose according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the laundry liquid composition further comprises at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of protease, α-amylase, lipase, cellulase, pectinase, oxidase, and mannanase.

12. The unit dose according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the laundry liquid composition comprises a pH regulating agent.

13. The unit dose according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the laundry liquid composition further comprises at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of soil repellent polymer, anti-redeposition polymer, and dye-transfer inhibitor.

14. The unit dose according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the laundry liquid composition further comprises at least one additive selected from the group comprising sequestering agent, hydrotrope, optical brightener, antimicrobial active ingredient, corrosion inhibitor, antioxidant, opacifier, fragrance, dyestuff, and mixtures thereof.

15. The use of the unit dose according to any of claims 1 to 14 in laundry washing.

Drawing